High-pressure fluid-flow system having compact two-bolt and four-bolt flanged and modular connectors

ABSTRACT

A one-piece block connects flanged fluid-flow connectors. Each connector includes a central port and at least two tabs, the tabs having apertures for affixing the connector to the block. The dimensions of the block and the connector are such that the block can accommodate a given number of connectors in a smaller space than required in the prior art. Moreover, the maximum working pressure of the connector can still be as large as about 5000 psi. Channels formed within the block allow fluid communication from one connector to another.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a compact,mechanically-connected, fluid-flow system having compact port-face tube,pipe and hose connectors. More particularly, the system has compacttwo-bolt and four-bolt flanged and modular connectors which meet orexceed the working pressure specified in SAE standard J518 and which fitwithin the minimum pad width specified in SAE standard J518.

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Four-bolt, split-flange connectors, such as illustrated in SAEstandard J518, are known for connecting tube, pipe, hose or the like toa fluid-flow port face on an adapter plate, pump, or the like. Theseconnectors are intended for use in hydraulic systems, or in industrialand commercial products, where it is desired to avoid the use ofthreaded connectors.

[0004] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 (prior art), known split-flangeconnectors 8 have a flanged head fitting 10, two split-flange clamphalves 18, and four bolts 14 which are inserted through the clamp halves18 and into threaded apertures 22 in the face plate 24. The bolts 14properly align the connector 8 with the port 6. The four-bolt,split-flange connector 8 may optionally include lock washers 16 and anO-ring seal 20 on its port face mating surface.

[0005] In mechanical, fluid-flow systems, it is common to design severalfluid-flow ports 6 adjacent one another. The proximity with whichfluid-flow ports 6 may be arranged is directly related to the diameterof the port and the widthwise and lengthwise dimensions of the prior artsplit-flange connectors 8. The Engineering Society for AdvancingMobility Land Sea Air and Space (SAE) has developed a standard whichcovers the specifications for the flanged head 10 and split-flange clamphalves 18 applicable to the aforementioned prior art four-bolt,split-flange hydraulic connectors 8.

[0006] SAE standard J518 covers complete general and dimensionalspecifications for the port 6, flange head 10 and split-flange clamphalves 18 applicable to four-bolt, split-flange type tube, pipe and hoseconnectors. In addition to specifying the dimensions of four-bolthydraulic flanged connectors and port dimensions for bolted flangeconnectors, SAE standard J518 specifies the material, finish,workmanship, material properties (minimum yield and minimum elongation),and maximum working pressure. Code 61 of SAE standard J518 recites thedimensions of standard pressure hydraulic flanged connectors while Code62 recites the dimensions of high pressure hydraulic flanged connectors.

[0007] The minimum and recommended dimensions between adjacentfluid-flow ports 6 for bolted flange connectors are specified in SAEstandard J518 with reference to a drawing reproduced substantiallyherein as FIG. 3. SAE standard J518 specifies dimensions BB, CC, and DDas the minimum vertical and horizontal distances between the center ofadjacent fluid-flow ports 6. The recommended distances BB, CC, and DDare based on the recommended dimensions of the above-described four-bolthydraulic flanged connectors and factor in a 0.06 inch clearance betweenflanges, dimensionally on the high limit, when the same size flanges areused on adjacent ports. SAE standard J518 also specifies the minimum padwidth EE of the port face for both the standard pressure series Code 61and high pressure series Code 62.

[0008] As used herein, the term “pad” refers to the surface of a block,pump, or the like immediately surrounding a port 6 to which a flangedhydraulic connector is attached. As used herein, the term “footprint” isused to describe the projected area of the mounting surface of theconnector which abuts the “pad” of the block, pump, etc.

[0009] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 (prior art), the recommended pad width FFof the hydraulic flanged connector is much wider than the minimum padwidth EE. In order to design a high-pressure fluid flow system morecompact than the prior art, it would be desirable to provide a flangedconnector having a widthwise dimension which is equal to or less thanthe minimum pad width EE so that the port dimensions CC and DD can bereduced.

[0010] In order to satisfy the aforementioned objects, the widthwisedimension of prior art two-bolt or four-bolt, split-flange connectorscannot simply be reduced. A reduction in the widthwise dimension wouldlikely reduce the maximum working pressure of the connector below thevalue specified in SAE standard J518. Therefore, it is a further objectof the invention to provide a compact connector which requires only theminimum pad width EE but which also meets or exceeds the workingpressure specified in SAE standard J518.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention provides a flanged connector having awidthwise dimension W which is less than the recommended pad width FF,preferably equal to or less than the minimum pad width EE, so that theport dimensions CC and DD can be reduced, and which also can meet orexceed the working pressure specified in SAE standard J518.

[0012] A one-piece, flanged fluid-flow connector of the invention can beused for connecting tube, pipe, hose or the like to a port face having aport diameter D1. The connector has an overall length L1.

[0013] The flanged connector has base portion having a height H, widthW, a generally-flat port face mounting surface on one end, a generallycylindrical connection piece at the other end, and a reinforcementportion intermediate the port face mounting surface and the connectionpiece. The port face mounting surface may have an annular recess formedtherein which is designed to receive an “O”-ring to seal the connectoron a desired port face. The reinforcement portion may comprise agenerally-conical, rectangular or ribbed extension.

[0014] A central, elongate, cylindrical channel extends lengthwisethrough the connector. The central channel has a nominal port diameterD1 at the port face mounting surface.

[0015] The base has a maximum width W which is less than the minimum padwidth FF, preferably less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE,specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal portdiameter D1 of the connector.

[0016] A generally-cylindrical connection piece is fixed to and extendsfrom the reinforcement portion. The connection piece has means forinterconnecting with a variety of elements such as a tube extension,hose, or pipe. The connection piece may have a variable length dependingon the intended element to which the connector is attached. Theconnection piece may have a threaded outer or other surface forreleasable interconnection with the desired tube, pipe, hose or thelike. Alternatively, the connection piece may be permanently connectedto a tube, pipe or the like by, for example, brazing, welding orswaging. The connection piece may be straight or bent to change thedirection of fluid flow. The connection piece has a length L2.

[0017] A plurality of tabs are fixed to and extend outwardly from thebase portion. Each of the tabs has an aperture extending therethrough.In a preferred embodiment, the (two-bolt) connector has two tabsdiametrically opposed from one another on opposed sides of the centralport. Alternatively, the (four-bolt) connector has two pair of tabs,each pair of tabs diametrically opposed from one another on opposedsides of the central port. The apertures are spaced apart a distance Zfrom one another in the two-bolt connector. The heightwise and widthwisespacing between apertures in the four-bolt connector are equal to Q andGG, respectively, as defined in SAE standard J518.

[0018] The tabs have a flat face surrounding the apertures on which theheads of fastening bolts are torqued. Preferably, the flat facecomprises a semi-circular cut-out in the reinforcement portion in thearea proximate the aperture.

[0019] The connector is manufactured from a high-strength structuralmaterial such as steel, iron or aluminum, or composite, preferably amedium carbon steel.

[0020] The dimensions of the connector are preferably selected such thatW≦EE, D1≦A, and Z=(Q²+GG²)^(1/2) wherein EE, A, Q, O and GG are definedin SAE standard J518. The connector has nested horizontal and verticalport dimensions bb, cc, and dd corresponding to nested horizontal andvertical port dimensions BB, CC, and DD in SAE standard J518. In thetwo-bolt embodiment, the dimension H is approximately equal to butslightly larger than the dimension O defined in SAE standard J518; thedimension bb is at least 15% smaller than the dimension BB; thedimension cc is smaller than the dimension CC; and, the dimension ddbeing at least 20% smaller than the dimension DD. In the four-boltembodiment, the dimension H is equal to or less than the dimension Odefined in SAE standard J518; cc is smaller than the dimension CC andthe dimension dd is at least 20% smaller than the dimension DD.

[0021] The invention also provides modular block connectors having aport face mounting surface width less than the recommended pad with FFestablished in SAE standard J518. Preferably, the port face mountingsurface width is equal to EE, the minimum pad width specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to the nominal port diameter D1. The portface mounting surface width may be less than EE provided the width ofthe footprint of the mating flange connector is less than the width ofthe port face mounting surface, thereby maintaining a widthwisedifferential between the port face mounting surface and the flangeconnector. The modular block connectors have fluid flow channels such asan Elbow, Tee, Cross, and other shapes.

[0022] The one-piece, block, connector for connecting flanged connectorshas a plurality of mounting surfaces. Each mounting surface has a widthW and a height H. A fluid-flow channel extends from one mounting surfaceto each of the other mounting surfaces. The fluid-flow channel may havean Elbow, Tee, or Cross shape. The channel has ports on each mountingsurface. The ports have a nominal diameter D1 at the mounting surfaces.The connector has a plurality of threaded bores on each mounting surfacefor fastening a flanged connector to the mounting surface.

[0023] The width W of at least one mounting surface is less than therecommended pad width FF, preferably less than or equal to the minimumpad width EE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal port diameter D1. The connector may have two, three, or fourmounting surfaces having a width W1, W2, W3, W4 less than FF, preferablyless than or equal to the minimum pad width EE, specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. The heightH of the block connector is preferably equal to the dimension Ospecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal diameter D1.The connector has a working pressure rating greater than or equal to theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tothe nominal diameter D1.

[0024] In one embodiment, at least one mounting surface has multiplefluid flow ports thereon. Each of the ports is connected to thefluid-flow-channel. The multiple ports are spaced apart a distance ddwherein dd is less than FF specified in SAE standard J518 correspondingto said nominal port diameter D1. Preferably, the dimension dd is lessthan or equal to the dimension EE specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. The multiple portmounting surface has a width W2 less than or equal to n times FF,preferably less than or equal to n times EE.

[0025] In another embodiment, the connector has more than one mountingsurface with multiple (N) ingredient (unconnected) fluid flow channels.Each of the fluid-flow channels extends from one mounting surface toanother. The mounting surfaces have multiple (n) ports thereon. Themultiple ports are spaced apart a distance dd which is equal to thedimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominalport diameter D1. In another embodiment, the dimension dd is less thanFF, more preferably less than or equal to EE, specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. The multiple portmounting surfaces have a width W2 less than or equal to n times Ospecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter. Preferably, the multiple port surfaces have a width W2 lessthan n times FF, more preferably less than or equal to n times EE.

[0026] The invention also provides a stackable, one-piece, blockconnector for connecting flanged connectors to a port face. Thestackable connector has a flange mounting surface, a port face mountingsurface and a stacking surface opposite the port face mounting surface.Each surface has a width W and a height H.

[0027] A fluid-flow channel extends from the port face mounting surfaceto at least one other mounting surface. The fluid-flow channel may havean Elbow, Tee, Cross or other shape. The channel has ports on the portface mounting surface and the mounting surface. The port has a nominaldiameter D1 at the port face mounting surfaces.

[0028] A plurality of threaded fastening bores are located on eachmounting surface for fastening the flanged connector to the mountingsurface. A plurality of through bores extend from the stacking surfaceto the port face mounting surface. Each through bore may have acounterbore in the stacking surface on the two bolt embodiment. Anannular recess is formed in the port face mounting surface proximate thefluid-flow port.

[0029] The flange mounting surfaces have a height H less than or equalto the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal diameter D1. The width W of at least one flange mounting surfaceis less than FF, preferably less than or equal to the minimum pad widthEE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter D1. The connector has a working pressure rating greater than orequal to the working pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to the nominal diameter D1.

[0030] In one embodiment, the stackable connector has at least onemounting surface with multiple (n) fluid-flow ports thereon. Each of theports are connected to the fluid-flow channel. The multiple ports arespaced apart a distance dd wherein dd is less than FF, preferably lessthan or equal to EE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal port diameter D1. The multiple port mounting surface has awidth W2 less than or equal to n times dd.

[0031] In another embodiment, the stackable connector has more than onemounting surface with multiple (n) ports thereon, each of the portsbeing connected to an independent (unconnected) fluid flow channelextending from one multiple port mounting surface to another. Themultiple ports are spaced apart a distance dd wherein dd is equal to thedimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominalport diameter D1. The multiple port mounting surfaces having a width W2less than or equal to n times the dimension O specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter.

[0032] Alternatively, dd is less than FF, preferably less than or equalto EE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter D1. In this embodiment, the multiple port surfaces have a widthW2 less than or equal to n times EE.

[0033] The invention also provides a one-piece, 180-degree flow turnaround connector. The turn around connector has a single mountingsurface having a width W and a height H, an input and output fluid-flowport on the mounting surface, and a 180-degree fluid-flow channelconnecting the input and output ports. The ports have a nominal diameterD1 at the mounting surface. The centers of the ports are separated by adistance dd wherein dd is less than FF, preferably less than or equal toEE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal portdiameter.

[0034] The width W of the mounting surface is less than or equal totwice the recommended pad width FF, preferably less than or equal totwice the minimum pad width EE, specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. The height H ispreferably equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to the nominal diameter D1. The connector has a workingpressure rating greater than or equal to the working pressure ratingspecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameterD1.

[0035] A plurality of through bores extend through each mountingsurface. An annular recess is formed in the port face mounting surfaceproximate each fluid-flow port.

[0036] The invention also provides a one-piece, 90-degree divide/combineflow connector. The divide/combine flow connector has a flange mountingsurface, a port face mounting surface, a fluid-flow channel connectingthe port face mounting surface and the flange mounting surface, and aplurality of through bores on the port face mounting surface. An annularrecess is formed in the port face mounting surface proximate eachfluid-flow port.

[0037] The flange mounting surface has a width W, a height H, and asingle port having a nominal diameter D1 at the first mounting surface.The port face mounting surface has a height H and two ports having anominal diameter up to D1 at the port face mounting surface.

[0038] The height H is preferably equal to the dimension O specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1. The centerof the ports are spaced apart from one another a widthwise distance ddwherein dd is less than or equal to the width FF, preferably at least20% smaller than the width FF, and more preferably less than or equal toEE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter D1.

[0039] The width W of the flange mounting surface is less than FF,preferably less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE, specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. Theconnector has a working pressure rating greater than or equal to theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal diameter D1.

[0040] The invention also provides a one-piece, in-line divide/combineflow connector. The in-line divide/combine flow connector has a flangemounting surface having a width W, a height H, a port face mountingsurface, a fluid-flow channel connecting the port face mounting surfaceand the flange mounting surface, a plurality of through bores on theport face mounting surface, and a plurality of threaded bores on saidflange mounting surface. An annular recess is formed in the port facemounting surface proximate each fluid-flow port.

[0041] The flange mounting surface has a single port having a nominaldiameter D1. The port face mounting surface has a height H and two portshaving a nominal diameter up to D1. The center of the ports are spacedapart from one another a widthwise distance dd wherein the width dd isless than or equal to 1-⅓ times EE specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. The height H ispreferably equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1. The connector has a workingpressure rating greater than or equal to the working pressure ratingspecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameterD1.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042]FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an assembled split flangedconnection in accordance with SAE standard J518 (prior art);

[0043]FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along lines Y-Y ofFIG. 1 (prior art);

[0044]FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the port dimensions ofhydraulic flanged, tube, pipe, and hose connections, four-bolt splitflange type of SAE standard J518 (prior art);

[0045]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a two-bolt connector having agenerally-conical reinforcement portion in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

[0046]FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the connector illustrated inFIG. 4;

[0047]FIG. 5a is a side elevational view with a partial section of atwo-bolt connector having a ribbed reinforcement portion in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention;

[0048]FIG. 5b is a side elevational view with a partial section of atwo-bolt connector having an increased thickness reinforcement portionin accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0049]FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the connector of FIG. 4;

[0050]FIG. 6a is a front elevational view of the connector of FIG. 5a;

[0051]FIG. 6b is a front elevational view of the connector of FIG. 5b;

[0052]FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of the minimum four-bolt flangeport dimensions set forth in SAE standard J518;

[0053]FIG. 8 is a footprint including reference dimensions of theconnector illustrated in FIG. 4;

[0054]FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a footprint of the connectorof FIG. 4 superimposed on the minimum four-bolt flange port dimensionsof FIG. 7;

[0055]FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of nested footprints includingreferenced dimensions of the connector illustrated in FIG. 4;

[0056]FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a footprint of theconnector of FIG. 4 superimposed on the minimum four-bolt flange portdimensions of FIG. 7 rotated about the fluid-flow port central axis;

[0057]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a four-bolt connector inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0058]FIG. 13 is a side elevation with a partial fragmentary view of theconnector illustrated in FIG. 12;

[0059]FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of the connector illustratedin FIG. 12 including reference dimensions;

[0060]FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of nested footprints of thefour-bolt connector illustrated in FIG. 12 including referenceddimensions;

[0061]FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of a offset 90-degree, flangedconnector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0062]FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.16;

[0063]FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of an in-line 90-degreeflanged connector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0064]FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.18;

[0065]FIGS. 20, 21 and 22 are perspective views of integral Elbow, Teeand Cross modular connectors in accordance with embodiments of theinvention;

[0066]FIG. 22a, 22 b, and 22 c are perspective views of four-port andsix-port modular connectors in accordance with embodiments of theinvention;

[0067]FIG. 22d is a perspective view of a header module in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention;

[0068]FIG. 22e is a perspective view of a junction module in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention;

[0069]FIGS. 23, 24, 25 are perspective views of stackable Elbow, Tee andCross modular connectors in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

[0070]FIG. 25a is a perspective view of a four-port modular connector inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0071]FIG. 25b is a perspective view of a stackable header module inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0072]FIGS. 26, 27, 28 are perspective views of integral Elbow, Tee andCross modular connectors in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

[0073]FIGS. 29, 30, 31 are perspective views of integral Elbow, Tee andCross modular connectors in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

[0074]FIGS. 32 and 33 are perspective views of integral adapters inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0075]FIG. 34 is a top plan view of a 180-degree flow turn aroundflanged modular connector in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

[0076]FIG. 35 is a front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.34;

[0077]FIG. 36 is a top plan view of a 180-degree flow turn around blockmodular connector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0078]FIG. 37 is a front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.36;

[0079]FIG. 38 is a top plan view of an offset flow modular blockconnector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0080]FIG. 39 is a front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.38;

[0081]FIG. 40 is a top plan view of an in-line divide flow/combine flowmodular connector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0082]FIG. 41 is a front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.40;

[0083]FIG. 42 is a top plan view of a right angle divide flow/combinedflow modular connector in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

[0084]FIG. 43 is a side elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.42;

[0085]FIG. 44 is a front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG.42; and,

[0086]FIG. 45 is a front plan view of a connector having multiple,interconnected fluid flow ports having different sizes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0087] The high-pressure, fluid-flow system of the present invention isdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 4-45 wherein like referencenumerals are used throughout to designate like structural elements.

[0088] The one-piece, flanged connector of the present invention mayhave a two-bolt design 30 or a four-bolt design 130. A first embodimentof the flanged connector of the present invention is described withreference to FIGS. 4-11 which show a two-bolt flanged connectordesignated generally by reference numeral 30.

[0089] The two-bolt, flanged connector 30 has a one-piece constructionin contrast with the prior art two-piece, split-flange connector 8illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. The connector 30 is preferably manufacturedfrom a high-strength structural material such as steel, iron, oraluminum, or composite and preferably medium carbon steel.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 4-6, the connector 30 generally has anirregularly-shaped base portion, a reinforcement portion, and aconnection piece. The base portion 32 has a height H and width W as bestseen in FIGS. 5 and 6. The tabs 34 (described below) have a thickness T.The connection piece 36 has a length L2 and an outer diameter D3. Theconnector has an overall length L1.

[0091] In one embodiment, best seen in FIGS. 4-6, the reinforcementportion comprises a lengthwise extending, generally-conical extension 32b at one end of the base. This embodiment is preferred whenmanufacturing small quantities of the connector 30.

[0092] When manufacturing large quantities of the connector 30, theconical reinforcement portion is reduced in thickness in the areas 1750indicated by hash marks in FIGS. 5a and 6 a, thereby forming a pluralityor ribs 1732 b. In this embodiment, it is recognized that the maximumworking stress does not occur in an area midway between the two mountingbolts, but rather in areas that are rotated about 40 degrees from thiscentrum adjacent to the mounting bolts and at the maximum widthwiseportion of the extension. Therefore, the ribs 1732 b are located in theareas shown in FIGS. 5a and 6 a.

[0093] In a further embodiment shown in FIGS. 5b and 6 b, thereinforcement portion comprises an enlarged thickness T extension 1832 bof the base portion 1832. Due to the enlarged thickness of the baseportion 1832, and tab 1834 (described below) has a counterbore 1832 c inthe lengthwise-extending apertures 1838 to receive a fastening bolt.

[0094] The reinforcement portion provides added strength to theconnector 30 which is required to meet the working pressure specified inSAE standard J518. The invention is described hereinafter with referenceto the embodiment disclosed in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6.

[0095] The base has a port face mounting surface 32 a at one end. Theport face mounting surface 32 a has an annular recess 42 formed thereinwhich is designed to receive an “O” ring which seals the connector 30 ona desired port face 24.

[0096] The connector 30 has a generally-cylindrical connection piece 36fixed to and extending from the narrow or tapered end of the conicalextension 32 b. The connection piece 36 is designed to interconnect witha variety of elements such as a tube extension, hose, or pipe. Thelength L2 of the connection piece 36 can be varied depending on theintended element to which the connector is attached. The connectionpiece 36 may have a threaded outer or other surface for releasableinterconnection with the desired tube, pipe, hose or the like.Alternatively, the connection piece is permanently fastened to a tube,pipe, hose, or the like by, for example, brazing, welding or swaging.

[0097] A central, elongate cylindrical channel extends lengthwisethrough the connector 30. As shown in FIG. 5, the central channel has auniform diameter D1 along its length. However, the diameter of thechannel may be varied along its length if desired. The channel has ports40 at the port face mounting surface 32 a and the end of the connectionpiece 36.

[0098] The connector 30 has a plurality of tabs 34 fixed to andextending outwardly from the base portion 32. In the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 4-6, the connector has two tabs 34 diametricallyopposed from one another. Each tab 34 has a lengthwise-extendingaperture 38 extending therethrough. Each aperture 38 is designed toalign with a threaded bore 22 in the port face surrounding thefluid-flow port 6. Referring to FIG. 6, the tabs have a flat surface orspot face 34 a on which the heads of fastening bolts are torqued. Theconical extension 32 b has semi-circular cut-outs 32 c in the areaproximate the apertures 38 to provide clearance for the fastening boltheads.

[0099] The dimensions of the connector 30 are described below in TablesIA and IB. The dimensions of the connector 30 are selected such that thetab apertures 38 align with the threaded bores 22 in the port face 24and such that the central port 40 aligns with the fluid-flow port 6.Thus, the dimensions of the connector 30 are dictated in part by theport dimensions specified in SAE standard J518. However, the width W(2×R1) of the connector 30 has been reduced in accordance with thepresent invention to be equal to or smaller than the minimum pad widthEE specified in SAE standard J518. TABLE IA (English) TWO-BOLT CONNECTORSPECIFICATIONS Nominal Flange Maximum Size Foot Print Dimensions BoltWorking D1 Z R1 R2 T D2 Size Pressure (in.) (in.) (in.) (in.) (in.)(in.) U.S. (p.s.i.) ⅛ .750 .296 .156 .250 .180 #8-32NC 12,000 ¼ .875.359 .188 .312 .205 #10-24NC 10,000 ⅜ 1.125 .422 .203 .375 .281 ¼-20NC8,500 ½ 1.650 .640 .297 .500 .343 {fraction (5/16)}-18NC 5,000 ¾ 2.070.797 .325 .563 .406 ⅜-16NC 5,000 1 2.305 .922 .406 .625 .406 ⅜-16NC5,000 1¼ 2.600 1.046 .375 .625 .469 {fraction (7/16)}-14NC 4,000 1½3.088 1.235 .437 .625 .531 ½-13NC 3,000 2 3.496 1.484 .437 .625 .531½-13NC 3,000

[0100] TABLE IB (Metric) TWO-BOLT CONNECTOR SPECIFICATIONS NominalFlange Maximum Size Foot Print Dimensions Bolt Working D1 Z R1 R2 T D2Size Pressure (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) Metric (p.s.i.) 3.2 19 7.5 46.4 4.5 M4-.7 12,000 6.4 22.2 9.1 4.8 7.9 5.6 M5-.8 10,000 9.5 28.6 10.75.2 9.5 6.8 M6-1 8,500 12.7 41.9 16.3 7.5 12.7 8.75 M8-1.25 5,000 1952.6 20.2 8.3 14.3 10.5 M10-1.5 5,000 25 58.5 23.4 10.3 15.9 10.5M10-1.5 5,000 31.7 66 26.6 9.5 15.9 12.5 M12-1.75 4,000 38 78.4 31.411.1 15.9 14.5 M14-2 3,000 50.8 88.8 37.7 11.1 15.9 14.5 M14-2 3,000

[0101] For example, the minimum pad width EE for a ½ inch flangeconnector according to SAE standard J518 is 1.31 inches. The width W ofapplicant's ½″ connector 30 is 1.28 inches (2×0.640 inches (R1)).

[0102] The four-bolt flange minimum pad size of SAE standard J518 isillustrated in FIG. 7 wherein the various dimensions are identified byreference letters. For comparison, the dimensions (footprint) of theconnector 30 are illustrated in FIG. 8 relative to the corresponding SAEstandard J518 reference letter. Referring to FIG. 9, the footprint ofFIG. 8 is shown superimposed on the pad of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 illustrateshow the connector 30 fits within the minimum pad width EE set forth inSAE standard J518 and properly aligns with the threaded bores 22 andfluid-flow port 6.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 9, it can be seen that the radius R2 projectsslightly above the port pad dimension O. This projection, however, isnot great enough to cause any interference when the connectors arenested (described below) and mounted on ports that meet the minimumdimension BB of SAE standard J518.

[0104] Because the width W of the connector 30 is reduced, and becauseof its unique geometry, the minimum spacing between adjacent fluid-flowports 6 can be reduced compared to the prior art dimensions BB, CC, andDD. FIG. 10 illustrates how the connectors 30 can be nested to reducethe minimum port dimensions bb, cc, and dd between two-bolt flangeconnectors 30 of the present invention. A comparison of the minimum portdimensions BB, CC and DD of SAE standard J518 and the reduced portdimensions bb, cc and dd of the two-bolt flange connector of the presentinvention is shown in Table II. TABLE II SAE Standard J518 RecommendedPort Dimensions BB, CC, DD vs. Reduced Port Dimensions bb, cc, dd ofTwo-Bolt Invention Nominal Size BB vs bb CC vs cc DD vs dd (in.) (in.)(in.) (in.) ⅛ XXX 0.906 XXX 0.844 xxx 0.625 ¼ XXX 1.031 XXX 1.000 XXX0.750 ⅜ XXX 1.218 XXX 1.203 XXX 0.875 ½ 2.22 1.765 2.06 1.843 1.91 1.312¾ 2.66 2.093 2.41 2.343 2.16 1.625 1 2.84 2.343 2.62 2.531 2.41 1.875 1¼3.22 2.531 3.09 2.796 2.97 2.125 1½ 3.78 2.984 3.56 3.296 3.34 2.500 24.09 3.328 4.00 3.734 3.91 3.000

[0105] It can be readily seen that the connector 30 of the presentinvention enables one of ordinary skill in the art to design afluid-flow system having a more compact design compared to the prior artsince the fluid-flow ports 6 can be arranged much closer than thecomparable ports for a four-bolt, split-flange connector as taught inSAE standard J518. One knowledgeable in the art will easily recognizethe advantages of this reduced size.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 11, it can be seen that the two-bolt flangeconnector 30 of the present invention can be rotated around thefluid-flow port 6 central axis to avoid tapped holes from interceptingwith fluid flow passages as well as to avoid two-bolt flange installmentinterference.

[0107] The two-bolt flange 30 of the present invention provides not onlyreduced port dimensions bb, cc, and dd compared to the dimensionsspecified in SAE standard J518, but also satisfies the strengthrequirements specified in SAE standard J518. Table I also shows that themaximum working pressure for the two-bolt connector 30 of the presentinvention meets or exceeds the maximum working pressure specified inCode 61 of SAE standard J518. For example, the maximum working pressurefor the ½ inch, ¾ inch, and 1 inch, connectors of the present inventionis 5,000 p.s.i. The maximum working pressure for the ⅛ inch, ¼ inch, and⅜ inch connectors is even higher. Thus, many sizes of the two-boltconnector 30 of the present invention meet or exceed not only theworking pressure specified in Code 61 (standard pressure series) butalso Code 62 (high pressure series) specified in SAE standard J518 forfour-bolt connectors.

[0108] Further, the connector 30 meets or exceeds the working pressurespecified in Code 61 with only a two-bolt design versus the four-boltdesign specified in SAE standard J518. One knowledgeable in the art willeasily recognize the advantages of a two-bolt design which includeeasier installation and manufacture.

[0109] As described above, the flange 30 is preferably made of a highstrength structural material so that the flange 30 meets or exceeds theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518. However, itshould be appreciated that the flange 30 can also be used in lowpressure systems requiring a compact design. In such applications, theflange can be made of a low strength material such as plastic.

[0110] A further embodiment of the flanged connector of the presentinvention is illustrated with reference to FIGS. 12-15 which show afour-bolt flanged connector designated generally by reference numeral130.

[0111] The four-bolt, flanged connector 130 has a one-piece constructionin contrast with the prior art two-piece, split-flange connector 8illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Similar to the two-bolt, flanged connector 30described above, the connector 130 is preferably manufactured from ahigh-strength structural material such as steel, iron, aluminum, orcomposite preferably medium carbon steel.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 12-14, the connector 130 has a rectangularbase portion 132, a reinforcement portion, and a generally-cylindricalconnection piece 136. The base portion 132 has a height H and width W asbest seen in FIGS. 13 and 14. The tabs (described below) have athickness T. The connection piece 136 has a length L2 and outer diameterD3. The connector has an overall length L1.

[0113] The base portion 132 has a lengthwise-extending, generallyconical extension 132 b at one end and a generally-flat, port facemounting surface 132 a at the other end. The port face mounting surface132 a has an annular recess 142 which is designed to receive an “O”-ringwhich seals the connector 130 on a desired port face 24. In theembodiment shown in FIGS. 12-14, the reinforcement portion is agenerally-conical extension 132 b which provides added strength to theconnector 130 which is required to meet the working pressure specifiedin SAE standard J518. Similar to the two-bolt design described above,the reinforcement portion may alternatively have the ribbed design orincreased thickness design shown in FIGS. 5a, 6 a, 5 b, 6 b,respectively.

[0114] The connector 130 has a generally-cylindrical connection piece136 fixed to and extending from the narrow or tapered end of the conicalextension 132 b. The connection piece 136 is designed to interconnectwith a variety of elements such as a tube extension, hose, or pipe. Thelength L2 of the connection piece 136 can be varied depending on theintended element to which the connector is attached. The connectionpiece 136 may have a threaded or other outer surface for releasableinterconnection with the desired tube, pipe, hose or the like.Alternatively, the connection piece 136 may be permanently fixed to atube, pipe, hose or the like by, for example, brazing, welding orswaging.

[0115] A central, elongate cylindrical channel extends lengthwisethrough the connector 130. As shown in FIG. 13, the central channel hasa uniform diameter D1 along its length. However, the diameter of thechannel may be varied along its length if desired. The channel has ports140 on the port face mounting surface 132 a and the end of theconnection piece 136.

[0116] The connector 130 has four tabs 134 fixed to and extendingoutwardly from the base portion 132. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 12-14, the connector has a pair of tabs on opposed height-wiseends of the base. Each tab has a lengthwise-extending aperture 138extending therethrough. Each aperture 138 is designed to align with athreaded bore 22 in the port face 24 surrounding the fluid-flow port 6.Referring to FIG. 14, the tabs have a flat surface or spot face 134 a onwhich the heads of fastening bolts are torqued. The conical extension132 b has semi-circular cut-outs 132 c in the area proximate theapertures 138 to provide clearance for the fastening bolt heads.

[0117] The dimensions of the four-bolt connector are described below inTables IIIA and IIIB. The dimensions of the connector 130 are selectedsuch that the tab apertures 138 align with the threaded bores 22 in theport face 24 and such that the central port 140 aligns with thefluid-flow port 6. Thus, the dimensions of the connector 130 aredictated in part by the port dimensions specified in SAE standard J518.However, the width W of the connector 130 has been reduced in accordancewith the present invention to be equal to or smaller than the minimumpad width EE specified in SAE standard J518. TABLE IIIA (English)Four-Bolt Connector Specifications Nominal Flange Maximum Size (in.)Foot Print Dimensions Bolt Working D1 Q GG W R2 T D2 Size Pressure (in.)(in.) (in.) (in.) (in.) (in.) (in.) U.S. (p.s.i.) ⅛ 0.696 0.278 0.5940.156 0.250 0.180 #8-32NC 12,000 psi ¼ 0.804 0.344 0.719 0.187 0.3120.205 #10-24NC 11,000 psi ⅜ 1.038 0.430 0.844 0.203 0.375 0.281 ¼-20NC 8,500 psi ½ 1.500 0.688 1.281 0.297 0.500 0.343 {fraction (5/16)}-18NC 6,000 psi ¾ 1.875 0.875 1.594 0.325 0.562 0.406 ⅜-16NC  6,000 psi 12.062 1.031 1.844 0.406 0.625 0.406 ⅜-16NC  6,000 psi 1¼ 2.312 1.1882.093 0.375 0.625 0.469 {fraction (7/16)}-14NC  6,000 psi 1½ 2.750 1.4062.469 0.437 0.625 0.531 ½-13NC  6,000 psi 2 3.062 1.688 2.969 0.4370.625 0.531 ½-13NC  6,000 psi

[0118] TABLE IIIA (Metric) Four-Bolt Connector Specifications Nom- inalFlange Size Maximum (mm) Foot Print Dimensions Bolt Working D1 Q GG W R2T D2 Size Pressure (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) Metric (p.s.i.) ⅛17.68 7.06 15 3.2 6.4 4.5 M4-7 12,000 psi ¼ 20.42 8.73 18.2 4.8 7.9 5.6M5-8 11,000 psi ⅜ 26.36 10.92 21.4 5.2 9.5 6.8 M6-1  8,500 psi ½ 38.117.47 32.5 7.5 12.7 8.75 M8-  6,000 psi 1.25 ¾ 47.63 22.22 40.5 8.3 14.310.5 M10-  6,000 psi 1.5 1 52.37 26.19 46.8 10.3 15.9 10.5 M10-  6,000psi 1.5 1¼ 58.73 30.18 53.1 9.5 15.9 12.5 M12-  6,000 psi 1.75 1½ 69.8535.71 62.7 11.1 15.9 14.5 M14-2  6,000 psi 2 77.77 42.87 75.4 11.1 15.914.5 M14-2  6,000 psi

[0119] For example, the minimum pad width EE for a ½ inch flangeconnector according to SAE standard J518 is 1.31 inches. The width W ofapplicant's ½ inch connector 130 is 1.281 inches.

[0120] The four-bolt flange minimum pad size of SAE standard J518 isillustrated in FIG. 7 wherein the dimensions are identified by referenceletters. For comparison, the dimensions of the connector 130 areillustrated in FIG. 14 relative to the corresponding SAE standard J518reference letter. FIG. 14 shows that the connector 130 will fit withinthe minimum pad width EE set forth in SAE standard J518 and willproperly align with the threaded bores 22 and fluid-flow port 6.

[0121] Because the width W of the connector 130 is reduced, the minimumspacing between adjacent fluid-flow ports 6 can be reduced compared tothe prior art dimensions CC and DD of SAE standard J518. FIG. 15illustrates how the connectors 130 can be nested to reduce the minimumport dimensions cc and dd between four-bolt flange connectors 130 of thepresent invention. A comparison of the minimum port dimensions CC and DDof SAE standard J518 and the reduced port dimensions cc and dd of thefour-bolt flange connector 130 of the present invention is shown inTable IV. TABLE IV SAE Standard J518 Recommended Port Dimensions vs.Reduced Port Dimensions of Four-Bolt Invention Nominal Size CC vs. cc DDvs. dd (in.) (in.) (in.) ⅛ XXX 0.875 XXX 0.625 ¼ XXX 1.031 XXX 0.750 ⅜XXX 1.234 XXX 0.875 ½ 2.062 1.718 1.906 1.312 ¾ 2.406 2.094 2.156 1.6251 2.625 2.312 2.406 1.875 1¼ 3.093 2.625 2.968 2.125 1½ 3.562 3.0943.344 2.500 2 4.000 3.500 3.906 3.00

[0122] Since the connector 130 of the present invention has a morecompact design compared to the prior art, the fluid flow ports 6 can bearranged much closer than the comparable ports for a four-bolt splitflange connector as taught in SAE standard J518. One knowledgeable inthe art will easily recognize the advantages of this reduced size.

[0123] The four-bolt flange connector 130 of the present inventionprovides not only reduced port dimensions cc and dd compared to thedimensions specified in SAE standard J518, but also satisfies thestrength requirements specified in SAE standard J518. Table III showsthat the maximum working pressure for the four-bolt connector 130 of thepresent invention meets or exceeds the maximum working pressurespecified in both Code 61 and Code 62 of SAE standard J518. For example,the maximum working pressure for the ½ inch, ¾ inch, 1 inch, 1-¼ inch,1-½ inch, and 2 inch connectors is 6,000 p.s.i. The maximum workingpressure for the ⅛ inch, ¼ inch, and ⅜ inch connectors 130 is 12,000,11,000, and 8,5000 p.s.i. respectively. Thus, the four-bolt connector130 of the present invention meets or exceeds not only the standardpressure series Code 61 but also the high pressure series Code 62specified in SAE standard J518 for four-bolt connectors.

[0124] Tables I-IV list several embodiments of the connectors of thepresent invention. The embodiments listed in tables I-IV correspond to arange of port diameters common in the industry. However, the connectorsof the present invention are not limited to the sizes recited therein.One of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that theconnectors 30 and 130 can be made in each of the sizes specified in SAEstandard J518 and achieve each of the above-described objects of theinvention.

[0125] FIGS. 16-17 illustrate an offset 90-degree, flanged connector230. FIGS. 18-19 illustrate an in-line 90-degree flanged connector 330.Similar to the two-bolt connector 30 described above, both 90-degreeflanged connectors 230/330 have a one-piece design. (A slash/is usedherein to separate reference numerals designating respective similarelements of different embodiments.) The connectors 230/330 have anirregularly-shaped base portion 232/332 having a lengthwise extending,generally-conical extension (reinforcement portion) 232 b/332 b at oneend and a generally-flat, port face mounting surface 232 a/332 a at theother end. The port face mounting surface 232 a/332 a has an annularrecess 242/342 formed therein which is designed to receive an O-ringwhich seals the connector 230/330 on a desired port face 24.

[0126] The 90-degree flanged connectors 230/330 have a connection piece236/336 fixed to and extending from the narrow or tapered end of theconical extension 232 b/332 b. The connection piece 236/336 is designedto interconnect with a variety of elements such as a tube extension,hose, or pipe.

[0127] In contrast with the connector 30 described above, the connectionpiece 236/336 of the connectors 230/330 bends 90-degrees to change thefluid flow direction without requiring additional fittings. Theconnectors 230/330 otherwise have the same construction and dimensionsas the two-bolt connector 30 described above. Specifically, thedimensions of the 90-degree connectors 230/330 are selected such thatthe flange apertures 238/338 align with threaded bores 22 in the portface 24 and such that the central port 240/340 aligns with thefluid-flow port 6.

[0128] Additionally, the width W of the connectors 230/330 is reduced tobe equal to or smaller than the minimum pad width EE specified in SAEstandard J518. The connectors 230/330 also satisfy the strengthrequirements specified in SAE standard J518 with only a two-bolt designverses the four-bolt design specified in SAE standard J518.

[0129] Modular connectors in accordance with embodiments of theinvention are illustrated in FIGS. 20-44. Unless otherwise indicated,the height H of each of the modular connectors shown in FIGS. 20-44 ispreferably equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518. Eachof the modular connectors has a working pressure rating greater than orequal to the working pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to the nominal diameter D1 of the fluid-flow port.

[0130] FIGS. 20-22 illustrate one-piece, block, fluid-flow connectorsfor connecting two or more two-bolt flanged connectors 30 (such asdescribed above). The block connectors 400/440/480 have a plurality ofmounting surfaces, each mounting surface having a width W and height H.A fluid flow channel extends from one mounting surface to each of theother mounting surfaces. The channel has ports 402/442/482 on eachsurface. The fluid-flow ports have a nominal diameter D1 at the mountingsurfaces. A plurality of threaded bores 406/446/486 are located on eachmounting surface for fastening a flanged connector to the mountingsurface. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 20-22, each connectorhas at least two mounting surfaces having a width W1, W2, each of whichis less than FF, preferably less than or equal to the minimum pad widthEE, specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal portdiameter D1.

[0131]FIG. 20 illustrates an Elbow modular connector 400 in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. The Elbow connector 400 has asingle-piece, block construction with a central channel extendingtherethrough. The central channel extends inwardly from a first mountingsurface 404 a, bends 90-degrees, and exits through a second mountingsurface 404 b. The connector 400 has a pair of threaded bores 406diagonally located on opposed sides of the channel ports 402.

[0132]FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate modular Tee 440 and Cross 480connectors, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The Tee 440 and Cross 480 connectors have a constructionsimilar to the Elbow connector 400 but have additional mounting surfaces444 c/484 c/484 d and a differently shaped fluid-flow channel. The shapeof the fluid-flow channel of each connector is illustrated graphicallyin FIGS. 20-31 by fluid-flow lines on the top of or above eachconnector.

[0133] The elbow connector 400 has two mounting surfaces having a widthW1, W2. The Tee connector 400 has three mounting surfaces having a widthW1, W2, W3. The Cross connector 480 has four mounting surfaces having awidth W1, W2, W3, W4.

[0134] Flanged two-bolt connectors 30, such as described above, can bemounted on each mounting surface 404 a,404 b/444 a,444 b,444 c/484 a,484b,484 c,484 d of the Elbow 400, Tee 440, and Cross 480 connectors,respectively, by inserting socket head bolts through the connector tabs34 and into the threaded bores 406/446/486.

[0135] FIGS. 20-22 illustrate that the width of each mounting surface ofthe connectors 400/440/480 is less than the recommended pad width FFestablished in SAE standard J518. Preferably, the width of each mountingsurface is equal to EE, the minimum pad width specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to the nominal diameter D1 of the central port402/442/482. The mounting surface width may be less than EE provided thewidth of the mating flange connector 30 is less than the width of themounting surface, thereby maintaining a widthwise differential betweenthe mounting surface and the flange connector.

[0136]FIGS. 22a, 22 b, and 22 c illustrate further embodiments of theblock, fluid-flow connectors for connecting two or more flangedconnectors (such as described above). The block connectors 700/720/740have a construction similar to the above-described connectors400/440/480. However, the connectors 700/720/740 have a top mountingsurface 704 c/724 c/744 c and a bottom mounting surface 704 d/724 d/744d. FIGS. 22a and 22 b show different embodiments of a four-port blockconnector while FIG. 22c shows a six-port block connector.

[0137]FIGS. 22a, 22 b, and 22 c show the dimensions of the connectorsrelative to the dimension EE. FIGS. 22a, 22 b, and 22 c show that thewidth W1 must be wider than EE.

[0138]FIG. 22d illustrates a further embodiment of the block, fluid-flowconnector for connecting two or more flanged connectors 30 (such asdescribed above). FIG. 22d illustrates a header module onto whichmultiple connectors may be fastened and interconnected by a commonfluid-flow channel 762. The header module 760 illustrated in FIG. 22dhas a plurality of mounting surfaces, each mounting surface having awidth W and a height H. The fluid-flow channel extends from the firstmounting surface 764 a to each of the other mounting surfaces 764 b-d.The channel has ports on two of the mounting surfaces 764 a, 764 b andmultiple (n) ports on the other two mounting surfaces 764 c, 764 d. Thefluid-flow ports have a nominal diameter D1 at the mounting surfaces. Aplurality of threaded bores 766 are located on each mounting surfaceproximate each fluid-flow port 762.

[0139] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 22d, the header module 760has two mounting surfaces 764 a, 764 b having a width W1 which is lessthan FF, and preferably less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE,specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal portdiameter D1. The other mounting surfaces 764 c, 764 d have a width W2and a height H. The width W2 of the header module 760 is less than orequal to three times dd which the widthwise distance between the portcenters. The dimension dd is less than FF, and preferably less than orequal to EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominalport diameter. The header module 760 may, however, be provided with adifferent number n of fluid-flow ports 762 on the multiple port mountingsurfaces 764 c, 764 d. In that case, the width W2 of the header module760 would be less than or equal to n times dd. The dimension dd may beless than EE provided that the width W of the flanged connector 30attached thereto is less than the dimension dd.

[0140]FIG. 22e illustrates a further embodiment of the block, fluid-flowconnector for connecting two or more flanged connectors 30 (such asdescribed above). FIG. 22e illustrates a junction module 780 to whichmultiple connectors can be attached to multiple, independent(unconnected) fluid-flow ports 782 a-d. The junction module 780 has aplurality of mounting surfaces 784 a-d. Independent fluid flow channels782 a-d extend from one mounting surface to each of the other mountingsurfaces. The channels have ports on each of the mounting surfaces,respectively. The fluid-flow ports have a nominal diameter D1 at themounting surfaces. A plurality of threaded bores 786 are located on eachmounting surface proximate each fluid-flow port. In the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 22e, each mounting surface has a width W2 equal tofour times dd. In this embodiment, the dimension dd is preferably equalto the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to thenominal port diameter D1. However, the width W1 and the height H areeach less than FF, preferably less than or equal to the minimum padwidth EE, specified in SAE standard J518.

[0141] FIGS. 23-25 illustrate stackable, one-piece, Elbow 420, Tee 460and Cross 500, fluid flow connectors for connecting one or more flangedconnectors (such as described above) to a port face. The stackable blockconnectors 424 c/464 c/504 c have at least one flange mounting surface,a port face mounting surface 424 a/464 a/504 a, and a stacking surface464 b/504 b opposite the port face mounting surface. An additional blockconnector can be fastened to or “stacked” on the stacking surface 464b/504 b of the Tee and Cross connectors after the first block connectorhas been fastened to the port face. Each surface of the block connectorhas a width W and a height H. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS.23-25, the width W of the mounting surfaces is less than FF, preferablyless than or equal to the minimum pad width EE, corresponding to thenominal port diameter D1.

[0142] A fluid-flow channel 422/462/502 extends from the port facemounting surface 424 a/464 a/504 a to each of the mounting surfaces 424c/464 c/504 c, 504 d. The fluid flow channel also extends to thestacking surface 464 b/504 b of the Cross and Tee connectors. Thechannel has ports on each surface. The fluid-flow ports have a nominaldiameter D1 at the port face mounting surface and at each of themounting surfaces.

[0143] A plurality of threaded fastening bores 426/466/506 are locatedon each mounting surface for fastening a flanged connector to themounting surface. A plurality of threaded fastening bores 466/506 arealso located on the stacking surface of the Cross and Tee connectors forfastening or stacking another block connector or the stacking surface.

[0144] In contrast with the connectors 400/440/480 described above, theconnectors 420/460/500 have a designated port face mounting surface 424a/464 a/504 a having an annular recess 423/463/503 formed thereindesigned to receive an “O” ring which seals the block connector on adesired port face 24. The connector 420/460/500 has a pair of throughbores 427/467/507 extending from the stacking surface to the port facemounting surface. The through bores are diagonally located on opposedsides of the central port. The bores 427/467/507 have a counterbore429/469/509 on the stacking surface 424 b/464 b/504 b. When fasteningbolts are inserted through the bores 427/467/507, the bolt heads fitwithin the counterbores 429/469/509. A two-bolt flanged connector 30 ormodular connector such as described above can then be fastened to or“stacked” on the stacking surface 464 b/504 b by inserting socket headbolts into the threaded bores 426/466/506. Two-bolt flanged connectors30 can also be mounted on the mounting surfaces 464 c/504 c,504 d of theTee and Cross connectors, respectively, which also have threaded bores466/506 diagonally located on opposed sides of the each port.

[0145] FIGS. 23-25 illustrate that the port face mounting surface inthese embodiments is wider than the dimension EE. Otherwise, thethreaded bores 426/466/506 and the through bores 427/467/507 wouldintersect and interfere with one another. However, the mounting surfaces424 c/464 c/504 c, 504 d which are perpendicular to the port facemounting surface 424 a/464 a/504 a have a width less than therecommended pad width FF established in SAE standard J518. Preferably,the width of the mounting surfaces 424 c/464 c/504 c,504 d is equal toEE, the minimum pad width specified in SAE standard J518 correspondingto the nominal diameter D1. The mounting surface width may be less thanEE provided the width of the mating flange connector 30 is less than thewidth of the mounting surface, thereby maintaining a widthwisedifferential between the mounting surface and the flange connector.

[0146]FIG. 25a illustrates a further embodiment of a stackable,fluid-flow connector for connecting one or more flanged connectors 30(such as described above) to a port face. The block connector 790 has aconstruction similar to the above-described stackable connectors420/460/500. However, the connector 790 has a top mounting surface 794d.

[0147]FIG. 25a shows the dimensions of the connector relative to thedimensions EE and O. FIG. 25a shows that the width of the port facemounting surfaces 794 a and the stacking surface 794 b must be widerthan EE so that the threaded fastening bores 796 and the through bores797 do not intersect and interfere with one another.

[0148]FIG. 25b illustrates a further embodiment of the block, fluid-flowconnector for connecting two or more flanged connectors 130 (such asdescribed above). FIG. 25b shows a “stackable” header module 800 onwhich multiple four-bolt connectors 130 can be fastened andinterconnected with a common fluid-flow channel. The header module 800has a port face mounting surface 804 a, a stacking surface 804 c, and amounting surface 804 b. An additional block connector can be fastened toor “stacked” on the stacking surface 804 c. Each surface of the blockhas a width W and a height H.

[0149] A common fluid-flow channel 802 extends from the port facemounting surface 804 a to the stacking surface 804 c and multiple portson the mounting surface 804 b. The fluid-flow ports have a nominaldiameter D1 at the port face mounting surface 804 a, the mountingsurface 804 b, and the stacking surface 804 c.

[0150] A plurality of threaded fastening bores 806 are located on eachsurface proximate each port. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 25b,the port face mounting surface has a width W1 which is greater than thedimension EE so that the threaded fastening bores 806 and the throughbores 807 do not intersect and interfere with one another. The mountingsurface 804 b has a width W2 which is less than or equal to two timesdd. In this embodiment, the dimension dd is less than FF, and preferablyless than or equal to the dimension EE corresponding to the nominaldiameter D1.

[0151] The two-bolt block connectors are illustrated and described aboveas “right-hand” connectors since the two threaded fastening bores, e.g.406, 446, 726, are located in the upper right corner and lower leftcorner of each mounting surface. However, it should be appreciated thatthe connector 30 can be “left-handed” with fastening bores in the upperleft and lower right corners.

[0152] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate Elbow 410, Tee 450, and Cross 490 modularconnectors designed to connect with the flanged four-bolt connectors 130described above. The Elbow connector 410 has a single-piece, blockconstruction with a central channel 412 extending therethrough. Thecentral channel extends inwardly from a first mounting surface 414 a,bends 90-degrees, and exits through a second mounting surface 414 b. Thechannel has ports on each mounting surface. The connector 410 has twopair of threaded bores 416 diagonally located on opposed sides of theeach port 412. The Tee 450 and Cross 490 connectors have a constructionsimilar to the Elbow connector 410 but have additional mounting surfacesand a differently shaped fluid-flow channel. Flanged four-boltconnectors 130 can be mounted on the mounting surfaces 414 a,414 b/454a,454 b,454 c/494 a,494 b,494 c,494 d of the Elbow 410, Tee 450, andCross 490 connectors, respectively, by inserting socket head boltsthrough the connector tabs 134 and into the threaded bores 416, 456,496.

[0153] FIGS. 26-28 illustrate that the width of at least one mountingsurface 414 a/454 a/494 a,494 d is less than the recommended pad widthFF established in SAE standard J518. Preferably, the width of themounting surfaces 414 a/454 a/494 a,494 d is equal to EE, the minimumpad width specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominaldiameter of the central port. The mounting surface width may be lessthan EE provided the width of the mating flanged connector 130 is lessthen the width of the mounting surface, thereby maintaining a widthwisedifferential between the mounting surface and the flange connector.

[0154] FIGS. 26-28 also illustrate that the other mounting surfaces 414b/454 b,454 c/494 d,494 c are wider than the dimension EE. Otherwise,the threaded bores 416/456/496 would intersect and interfere with oneanother. Therefore, additional widthwise material must be provided toprevent interference.

[0155] FIGS. 29-31 illustrate Elbow 430, Tee 470, and Cross 510 modularconnectors which can be “stacked” and connected to one or more four-boltconnectors 130 described above. In contrast with the connectors410/450/490 described above, the connectors 430/470/510 have adesignated port face mounting surface 434 a/474 a/514 a having anannular recess 433/473/513 formed therein designed to receive an “O”ring which seals the block connector on a desired port face 24.

[0156] The connectors 430/470/510 have two pairs of through bores437/477/517 diagonally located on opposed sides of the port 432/472/512.A four-bolt flanged connector 130 or additional block connector can befastened to or “stacked” on the stacking surface 474 b/514 b byinserting fastening bolts through the through bores 477/517, and intothreaded bores on a desired port face 24. Four-bolt flanged connectors130 can also be mounted on the mounting surfaces 434 c/474 c/514 c,514 dwhich have threaded bores 436/476/516 diagonally located on oppositesides of the port 432/472/512.

[0157] FIGS. 29-31 illustrate that the width W2 of the mounting surfaces434 c/474 c/514 c,514 d is less than the recommended pad width FFestablished in SAE standard J518. Preferably, the width of the mountingsurfaces 434 c/474 c/514 c,514 d is equal to EE but may be less than EEprovided the width of the mating flange connector 130 is less than thewidth W2 of the mounting surface. FIGS. 29-31 also illustrate that theport face mounting surface 434 a/474 a/514 a is wider than the dimensionEE. Otherwise, the through bores 437/477/517 and the threaded bores436/476/516 would intersect and interfere with one another.

[0158]FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate adapters in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The adapters 520/540 are used to retaintwo-bolt or four-bolt sandwich modules and provide a two-bolt flangeport for adding new components to the fluid-flow circuit. The adapters520/540 are also used to adapt to the alternate two-port tappedlocations.

[0159] The adapters 520/540 have a single-piece, block construction witha central port 522/542 extending therethrough. The central port 522/542extends through the adapter from a port face mounting surface 524 a/544a to a mounting surface 524 b/544 b. Each adapter 520/540 has a pair ofthreaded bores 526/546 diagonally located on opposed sides of thecentral port.

[0160] The adapters also include a pair of through bores 527/547diagonally located on opposed sides of the central port and extendingentirely through the adapters 520/540. One end of the aperture has anenlarged-diameter counterbore 527 a/547 a formed in one of the port facemounting surfaces 524 b/544 b.

[0161] FIGS. 34-44 illustrate further connectors in accordance with thepresent invention. FIGS. 34-35 illustrate a 180-degree flow turn aroundflanged modular connector 560. FIGS. 36-37 illustrate a 180-degree flowturn around block modular connector 580.

[0162] The one-piece, 180-degree flow turn around connectors 560/580have a single port face mounting surface 564/584 having a width W and aheight H. Input and output fluid-ports are located on the port facemounting surface and a 180-degree fluid-flow channel 562/582 connectsthe input and output ports. The ports have a nominal diameter D1 at theport face mounting surface.

[0163] The flanged connector 560 has a height H which is slightly largerthan O. The block connector 580 has a height H which is less than orequal to O.

[0164] Each connector 560/580 has a pair of through bores 567/587diagonally located on opposed sides of the input port and output port.The through bores 567/587 receive bolts for mounting the connectors560/580 to a port face.

[0165] FIGS. 34-37 illustrate that the width W of the 180-degree flowturn around connectors 560/580 is less than twice the dimension FF,preferably less than twice the minimum pad width EE of SAE standard J518described in detail above. The port centers are separated by thedimension dd. The dimension dd is less than FF, and preferably equal toEE. The dimension dd may also be less than EE provided the width W ofthe connector attached thereto is less than the dimension dd. Forexample, the turn around connectors 560/580 can be mounted on twoadjacently-connected (stacked) block connectors such as described abovehaving the pad width EE or on a block connector having an enlarged widthand multiple fluid-flow ports (described below).

[0166] FIGS. 38-39 illustrate an offset flow modular block connector 600in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The offset flowconnector 600 has a single-piece, block construction similar to the turnaround block connector 580 described above except that the centralchannel extends inwardly from a first port face mounting surface 604 aand exits through a second port face mounting surface 604 b. While theoverall width W of the connector 580 is greater than 2 times EE, theconnector 580 can be connected to two fluid flow ports 6 separated bythe port dimension dd. The dimension dd is less than FF, and preferablyequal to EE. The dimension dd may also be less than EE provided thewidth W of the flanged connector attached thereto is less than thedimension dd.

[0167] FIGS. 40-41 illustrate an in-line divide flow/combine flowmodular connector 620. The connector 620 has a single-piece, blockconstruction with a central channel 622 extending inwardly from an inputport face mounting surface 624 a, dividing internally into two separatechannels which exit on an opposed port face mounting surface 624 b. Theconnector 620 has a pair of through bores 627 diagonally located onopposed sides of each port on the exit port face mounting surface 624 b.The through bores 627 receive connecting bolts for mounting theconnector to a port face, flange connector, or block connector. Theconnector 620 also has a pair of threaded bores 626 diagonally locatedon opposed sides of the port on the input port face mounting surface 624a.

[0168] The width W of the connector is preferably equal to, but may beless than, 2-⅓ times EE. The ports on the output port face 624 b areseparated by the distance dd which is preferably equal to, but may beless than, 1-⅓ EE.

[0169] FIGS. 42-44 illustrate a right angle divide flow/combine flowmodular connector 640. The connector 640 has a single-piece, blockconstruction with a central channel extending inwardly from a first portface mounting surface 644 a, dividing internally into two separatechannels which exit on a second port face mounting surface 644 b. Theconnector 640 has a pair of through bores 647 diagonally located onopposed sides of each port on the exit port face mounting surface 644 b.The apertures receive connecting bolts for mounting the connector 640 toa port face. The connector 640 also has a pair of threaded bores 646diagonally located on opposed sides of the port on the input port facemounting surface 644 a.

[0170] FIGS. 42-44 illustrate that the width of the first port facemounting surface 644 a of the connector 640 is less than FF, preferablyless than or equal to the minimum pad width EE of SAE standard J518described in detail above. FIGS. 42-44 also illustrate that the distancebetween the ports centers on the second port face mounting surface isequal to dd. The dimension dd is preferably equal to or less than EE.For example, the connector 640 can be mounted on twoadjacently-connected (stacked) block connectors such as described abovehaving the minimum pad width EE.

[0171] Except in FIG. 45, the modular connectors are illustrated anddescribed wherein all the fluid-flow channels have a constant diameteralong its length and the ports have the same nominal diameter D1.However, it should be appreciated to one of ordinary skill in the artthat the modular connectors may have a converging or diverging fluidflow channel and a plurality of ports having different nominaldiameters. In such a case, the height H of the connector is determinedby the diameter of the largest port in the connector. The width W1 andW2 of the connector are determined by the port diameter, or combinationof port diameters, on the respective mounting surfaces. Typically, thewidth W1 is determined by the largest port diameter.

[0172] The embodiments shown in FIGS. 34-44 can be made to accept afour-bolt flanged connector 130 by adding additional threaded fasteningbores. In such embodiments, the dimensions shown in FIGS. 34-44 would bethe same except for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 40 and 41. A four-boltin-line divide flow/combine flow modular connector would have a width Wless than or equal to 3 times EE and the dimension dd would be equal to2 times EE.

[0173]FIG. 45 illustrates a modular block connector 900 having multipleinterconnected fluid-flow channels 902 having different diameters. Theconnector 900 has a single-piece, block construction with a fluid-flowchannel extending inwardly from a first port face mounting surface 904 ato a second port face mounting surface 904 b having multiple portsthereon. FIG. 45 illustrates how several two-bolt and four-bolt flangeconnectors having different sizes can be fastened to and nested on thesecond port face mounting surface 904 b. FIG. 45 illustrates variousdimensions between port centers corresponding to various sizes specifiedin SAE standard J518. The four digit code underneath the variousdimensions represents the pressure series and size of the port asdesignated in SAE standard J518.

[0174] The flanged and block connectors described above are combined toform a compact fluid flow system. The fasteners employed in connectingeither the flanged connectors or modular block connectors describedabove should have a minimum tensile yield of 155,000 p.s.i. which ishigher than the Grade 5 minimum allowed by SAE standard J518.

1. A one-piece, flanged, fluid-flow connector for connecting tube, pipe,hose or the like to a port face, said connector having an overall lengthL1, comprising: a) a base having a height H, width W, a generally-flatport face mounting surface on one end, and a connection piece fixed toand extending from the other end of said base; b) a plurality ofmounting tabs fixed to and extending outwardly from said base, said tabshaving a thickness T and an aperture extending therethrough; c) acentral, elongate, cylindrical channel extending lengthwise through saidconnector from a port on said mounting surface to a port on saidconnection piece, said port having a nominal diameter D1 at said portface mounting surface, said base having a maximum width W which is lessthan the recommended pad width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518.
 2. The connector recitedin claim 1, said width W being less than or equal to EE.
 3. Theconnector recited in claim 1, said base having a reinforcement portion,said connection piece contiguously formed with and extending from saidreinforcement portion.
 4. The connector recited in claim 3, saidreinforcement portion comprising a generally-conical extensionintermediate said tabs and said connection piece.
 5. The connectorrecited in claim 3, said reinforcement portion comprising ribsintermediate said tabs and said connection piece.
 6. The connectorrecited in claim 1, said port face having an annular recess formedtherein constructed and arranged to receive an “O”-ring to seal theconnector on a desired port face.
 7. The connector recited in claim 1,said connection piece having means for interconnecting with a variety ofelements such as a tube extension, hose, or pipe.
 8. The connectorrecited in claim 7, said connection piece having a variable lengthdepending on the intended element to which the connector is attached. 9.The connector recited in claim 7, said connection piece having athreaded outer surface for releasable interconnection with the desiredtube, pipe, hose or the like.
 10. The connector recited in claim 3,including two tabs diametrically opposed from one another on opposedsides of said port.
 11. The connector recited in claim 10, said tabapertures being spaced apart a distance Z from one another.
 12. Theconnector recited in claim 11, said tabs having a spot face 34 asurrounding said apertures on which the heads of fastening bolts aretorqued.
 13. The connector recited in claim 12, said spot facecomprising a cut-out in the reinforcement portion in the area proximatesaid apertures.
 14. The connector recited in claim 11, the dimensionsbeing selected such that W is less than or equal to EE, D1 is equal toA, and Z is equal to (Q²+GG²)½, wherein EE, A, Q, O and GG are definedin SAE standard J518.
 15. The connector recited in claim 10, saidconnector having nested horizontal and vertical port dimensions bb, cc,and dd corresponding to nested horizontal and vertical port dimensionsBB, CC, and DD defined in SAE standard J518.
 16. The connector recitedin claim 15, said dimension bb being at least 15% smaller than thedimension BB.
 17. The connector recited in claim 15, said dimension ccbeing smaller than the dimension CC.
 18. The connector recited in claim15, said dimension dd being at least 20% smaller than the dimension DD.19. The connector recited in claim 1, including two pair of tabsdiametrically opposed from one another on opposed sides of said port.20. The connector recited in claim 19, said connector having nestedhorizontal and vertical port dimensions bb, cc, and dd corresponding tonested horizontal and vertical port dimensions BB, CC, and DD defined inSAE standard J518.
 21. The connector recited in claim 20, said dimensioncc being smaller than the dimension CC.
 22. The connector recited inclaim 20, said dimension dd being at least 20% smaller than thedimension DD.
 23. The connector recited in claim 1, said connectionpiece being bent to change the direction of fluid flow.
 24. A one-piece,block, fluid-flow connector for connecting flanged, fluid-flowconnectors, said block connector having: a) a plurality of mountingsurfaces, each mounting surface having a width W and a height H; b) afluid-flow channel extending from one mounting surface to each of theother mounting surfaces, said channel having ports on each mountingsurface, each of said ports having a nominal diameter at said mountingsurfaces; c) a plurality of bores on each mounting surface for fasteningthe flanged connector to said mounting surface, wherein the width W1 ofa first mounting surface is less than the recommended pad width FFspecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal portdiameter D1 on said first mounting surface; and, said connector having aworking pressure rating on said first mounting surface greater than orequal to the working pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 25. The connector recited inclaim 24, said width W1 being less than or equal to the minimum padwidth EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominalport diameter D1.
 26. The connector recited in claim 25, said height Hbeing less than or equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 27. The connectorrecited in claim 26, said fluid-flow channel having an Elbow, Tee, orCross shape.
 28. The connector recited in claim 24, including a secondmounting surface having a width W2 which is less than or equal to theminimum pad width EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to thenominal port diameter D2 on said second mounting surface; said connectorhaving a working pressure rating on said second mounting surface greaterthan or equal to the working pressure rating specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to the nominal diameter D2.
 29. The connector recitedin claim 24, including a third mounting surface having a width W3 whichis less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D3 on saidthird mounting surface; said connector having a working pressure ratingon said third mounting surface greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to thenominal diameter D3.
 30. The connector recited in claim 24, including afourth mounting surface having a width W4 which is less than or equal tothe minimum pad width EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal port diameter D4 on said fourth mounting surface; saidconnector having a working pressure rating on said fourth mountingsurface greater than or equal to the working pressure rating specifiedin SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominal diameter D4.
 31. Theconnector recited in claim 25, having at least one mounting surface withmultiple fluid flow ports thereon, each of said ports being connected tosaid fluid-flow-channel.
 32. The connector recited in claim 31, thecenters of said multiple ports being spaced apart a distance dd whereindd is less than the dimension FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1.
 33. The connectorrecited in claim 32, wherein dd is less than or equal to EE specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. 34.The connector recited in claim 33, said multiple port mounting surfacehaving a width W2 less than or equal to n times EE.
 35. The connectorrecited in claim 34, having more than one mounting surface with multiplefluid flow ports thereon.
 36. The connector recited in claim 25, havingmore than one mounting surface with multiple (n) ports thereon, each ofsaid ports being connected to an independent (unconnected) fluid flowchannel extending from one multiple port mounting surface to another.37. The connector recited in claim 36, said multiple ports being spacedapart a distance dd wherein dd is equal to the dimension O specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. 38.The connector recited in claim 37, wherein dd is less than FF specifiedin SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. 39.The connector recited in claim 38, wherein dd is less than or equal toEE.
 40. The connector recited in claim 39, said multiple port mountingsurfaces having a width W2 less than or equal to n times the dimension Ospecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter.
 41. The connector recited in claim 40, said multiple portsurfaces having a width W2 less than or equal to n times EE.
 42. Astackable, one-piece, block, fluid-flow connector for connecting flangedconnectors to a port face, said stackable connector having: a) a flangemounting surface, a port face mounting surface and a stacking surfaceopposite said port face mounting surface, each surface having a width Wand a height H; b) a fluid-flow channel extending from said port facemounting surface to at least one other mounting surface, said channelhaving ports on said port face mounting surface and said mountingsurface, each of said ports having a nominal diameter at said port facemounting surfaces; c) a plurality of threaded fastening bores on atleast one mounting surface for fastening the flanged connector to saidmounting surface, d) a plurality of through bores extending from saidstacking surface to said port face mounting surface, wherein the widthW1 of a first flange mounting surface is less than the recommended padwidth FF specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to the nominalport diameter D1 on said first mounting surface; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating on said first flange mounting surfacegreater than or equal to the working pressure rating specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 43. Theconnector recited in claim 42, said width W1 being less than or equal tothe minimum pad width EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal port diameter D1.
 44. The connector recited in claim 43,each through bore having a counterbore in the stacking surface.
 45. Theconnector recited in claim 43, said flange mounting surfaces having aheight H less than or equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 46. The connectorrecited in claim 43, said fluid-flow channel having an Elbow, Tee, orCross shape.
 47. The connector recited in claim 43, including an annularrecess formed in the port face mounting surface proximate saidfluid-flow port.
 48. The connector recited in claim 43, said stackingsurface including and a plurality of threaded bores.
 49. The connectorrecited in claim 43, including two opposed flange mounting surfaceshaving a width W2 less than or equal to EE.
 50. The connector recited inclaim 43, having at least one mounting surface with multiple (n)fluid-flow ports thereon, each of said ports being connected to saidfluid-flow channel.
 51. The connector recited in claim 48, the centersof said multiple ports being spaced apart a distance dd wherein dd isless than FF specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal port diameter D1.
 52. The connector recited in claim 51, whereindd is less than or equal to EE specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 53. The connector recited inclaim 52, said multiple port mounting surface having a width W2 lessthan or equal to n times dd.
 54. A one-piece, 180-degree flow turnaround connector, comprising: a) a single mounting surface having awidth W and a height H; b) an input and output fluid-flow port on saidmounting surface, and a 180-degree fluid-flow channel connecting saidinput and output ports, said ports having a nominal diameter D1 at saidmounting surface; c) a plurality of through bores in said mountingsurface, wherein the width W of said mounting surface is less than twicethe recommended pad width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal diameter D1.
 55. The connector recited in claim 54, said width Wbeing less than or equal to twice the minimum pad width EE specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1. 56.The connector recited in claim 55, said height H being less than orequal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal diameter D1.
 57. The connector recited in claim 55,including an annular recess formed in the port face mounting surfaceproximate each fluid-flow port.
 58. The connector recited in claim 57,the centers of said ports being separated by a distance dd wherein dd isless than or equal to FF specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal port diameter.
 59. The connector recited in claim 58,wherein dd is less than or equal to EE.
 60. A one-piece, 90-degreedivide/combine flow connector, comprising: a) a flange mounting surfacehaving a width W, a height H, and a single port having a nominaldiameter D1 at said first mounting surface; b) a port face mountingsurface having a height H and two ports having a nominal diameter D1 atsaid port face mounting surface, the center of said ports being spacedapart from one another a widthwise distance dd; c) a fluid-flow channelconnecting said ports, d) a plurality of through bores in said port facemounting surface; e) a plurality of threaded bores on said flangemounting surface, wherein the width W of said flange mounting surface isless than the recommended pad width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal diameter D1.
 61. The connector recited in claim 60, said width Wbeing less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1.
 62. Theconnector recited in claim 61, said height H being equal to thedimension O specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominaldiameter D1.
 63. The connector recited in claim 61, including an annularrecess formed in the port face mounting surface proximate eachfluid-flow port.
 64. The connector recited in claim 61, wherein thewidth dd is less than to the width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1.
 65. The connectorrecited in claim 64, wherein the width dd is at least 20% smaller thanthe width FF.
 66. The connector recited in claim 64, wherein the widthdd is less than or equal to EE.
 67. A one-piece, in-line divide/combineflow connector, comprising: a) a flange mounting surface having a widthW, a height H, and a single port having a nominal diameter D1 at saidfirst mounting surface; b) a port face mounting surface having a heightH and two ports having a nominal diameter D1 at said port face mountingsurface, the center of said ports being spaced apart from one another awidthwise distance dd; c) a fluid-flow channel connecting said ports, d)a plurality of through bores on said port face mounting surface; e) aplurality of threaded bores on said flange mounting surface, wherein thewidth dd is less than or equal to 1-⅓ times EE specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal diameter D1.
 68. The connector recited in claim 67, said heightH being equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 69. The connector recited inclaim 67, including an annular recess formed in the port face mountingsurface proximate each fluid-flow port.
 70. A compact, fluid-flowconnection system for connecting tube, pipe, hose or the like to a portface, said system comprising a flanged connector and a block connector,said flanged connector having: a) a base having a height HF, width WF, agenerally-flat port face mounting surface on one end, and a connectionpiece fixed to and extending from the other end of said base; b) aplurality of mounting tabs fixed to and extending outwardly from saidbase, said tabs having a thickness T and an aperture extendingtherethrough; c) a central, elongate, cylindrical channel extendinglengthwise through said connector from a port on said mounting surfaceto a port on said connection piece, said port having a nominal diameterD1 at said port face mounting surface, said base having a maximum widthWF which is less than the recommended pad width FF specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, saidconnector having a working pressure rating greater than or equal to theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518, said blockconnector having: a) a plurality of mounting surfaces, each mountingsurface having a width WB and a height HB; b) a fluid-flow channelextending from one mounting surface to each of the other mountingsurfaces, said channel having ports on each mounting surface, said portshaving a nominal diameter D1 at said mounting surfaces; c) a pluralityof bores on each mounting surface for fastening the flanged connector tosaid mounting surface, wherein the width WB of at least one mountingsurface is less than the recommended pad width FF specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal-port diameter D1; and, saidconnector having a working pressure rating greater than or equal to theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal diameter D1.
 71. The system recited in claim 70, saidflange width WF being less than or equal to EE; said flange base havinga reinforcement portion, said connection piece contiguously formed withand extending from said reinforcement portion; said reinforcementportion comprising a generally-conical extension intermediate said tabsand said connection piece or ribs intermediate said tabs and saidconnection piece; said flange connector port face having an annularrecess formed therein constructed and arranged to receive an “O”-ring toseal the connector on a desired port face; said connection piece havingmeans for interconnecting with a variety of elements such as a tubeextension, hose, or pipe; said connection piece having a variable lengthdepending on the intended element to which the connector is attached;said connection piece having a threaded outer surface for releasableinterconnection with the desired tube, pipe, hose or the like; saidflange connector including two tabs diametrically opposed from oneanother on opposed sides of said port; said tab apertures being spacedapart a distance Z from one another; said tabs having a spot facesurrounding said apertures on which the heads of fastening bolts aretorqued; said spot face comprising a cut-out in the reinforcementportion in the area proximate said apertures; the dimensions beingselected such that WF is less than or equal to EE, D1 is equal to A, HFis equal to O and Z is equal to (Q²+GG²)½, wherein EE, A, Q, O and GGare defined in SAE standard J518; said connector having nestedhorizontal and vertical port dimensions bb, cc, and dd corresponding tonested horizontal and vertical port dimensions BB, CC, and DD defined inSAE standard J518; said dimension bb being at least 15% smaller than thedimension BB; said dimension cc being smaller than the dimension CC; andsaid dimension dd being at least 20% smaller than the dimension DD. 72.The system recited in claim 71, said block width WB being less than orequal to the minimum pad width EE specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; said block height HBbeing less than or equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1; said block fluid-flowchannel having an Elbow, Tee, or Cross shape; including two blockmounting surfaces having a width W1, W2, respectively, each of which isless than or equal to the minimum pad width EE specified in SAE standardJ518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1.
 73. The systemrecited in claim 72, said block connector having at least one mountingsurface with multiple fluid flow ports thereon, each of said ports beingconnected to said fluid-flow-channel; the centers of said multiple portsbeing spaced apart a distance dd wherein dd is less than or equal to EEspecified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal portdiameter D1; and said multiple port mounting surface having a width W2less than or equal to n times EE.
 74. The system recited in claim 72,said block connector having more than one mounting surface with multiple(n) ports thereon, each of said ports being connected to an independent(unconnected) fluid flow channel extending from one multiple portmounting surface to another; said multiple ports being spaced apart adistance dd wherein dd is less than or equal to EE; and said multipleport mounting surfaces having a width W2 less than or equal to n timesthe dimension EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal port diameter.
 75. The system recited in claim 70, including astackable, one-piece, block, fluid-flow connector for connecting flangedconnectors to a port face, said stackable connector having: a) a flangemounting surface, a port face mounting surface and a stacking surfaceopposite said port face mounting surface, each surface having a width WSand a height HS; b) a fluid-flow channel extending from said port facemounting surface to at least one other mounting surface, said channelhaving ports on said port face mounting surface and said mountingsurface, said port having a nominal diameter D1 at said port facemounting surfaces; c) a plurality of threaded fastening bores on atleast one mounting surface for fastening the flanged connector to saidmounting surface, d) a plurality of through bores extending from saidstacking surface to said port face mounting surface, wherein the widthWS of at least one flange mounting surface is less than the recommendedpad width FF specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal port diameter D1; and, said connector having a working pressurerating greater than or equal to the working pressure rating specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 76. Thesystem recited in claim 75, said width WS being less than or equal tothe minimum pad width EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal port diameter D1; each through bore having a counterbore inthe stacking surface; said flange mounting surfaces having a height HSless than or equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1; said fluid-flow channelhaving an Elbow, Tee, or Cross shape; including an annular recess formedin the port face mounting surface proximate said fluid-flow port; saidstacking surface including a plurality of threaded bores; including twoopposed flange mounting surfaces having a width WS2 less than or equalto EE.
 77. The system recited in claim 75, including a one-piece,180-degree flow turn around connector, comprising: a) a single mountingsurface having a width WT and a height HT; b) an input and outputfluid-flow port on said mounting surface, and a 180-degree fluid-flowchannel connecting said input and output ports, said ports having anominal diameter D1 at said mounting surface; c) a plurality of throughbores in said mounting surface, wherein the width WT of said mountingsurface is less than twice the recommended pad width FF specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, saidconnector having a working pressure rating greater than or equal to theworking pressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding tosaid nominal diameter D1.
 78. The system recited in claim 77, said widthWT being less than or equal to twice the minimum pad width EE specifiedin SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1;said height HT being less than or equal to the dimension O specified inSAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1; includingan annular recess formed in the port face mounting surface proximateeach fluid-flow port; the centers of said ports being separated by adistance dd wherein dd wherein dd is less than or equal to EE specifiedin SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter; 79.The system recited in claim 75, including a one-piece, 90-degreedivide/combine flow connector, comprising: a) a flange mounting surfacehaving a width WD, a height HD, and a single port having a nominaldiameter D1 at said first mounting surface; b) a port face mountingsurface having a height HD and two ports having a nominal diameter D1 atsaid port face mounting surface, the center of said ports being spacedapart from one another a widthwise distance dd; c) a fluid-flow channelconnecting said ports, d) a plurality of through bores in said port facemounting surface; e) a plurality of threaded bores on said flangemounting surface, wherein the width WD of said flange mounting surfaceis less than the recommended pad width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; and, said connectorhaving a working pressure rating greater than or equal to the workingpressure rating specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to saidnominal diameter D1.
 80. The system recited in claim 79, said width WDbeing less than or equal to the minimum pad width EE specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1; saidheight HD being equal to the dimension O specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal diameter D1; including an annular recessformed in the port face mounting surface proximate each fluid-flow port.wherein the width dd is less than or equal to EE FF specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal port diameter D1.
 81. Thesystem recited in claim 75, including a one-piece, in-linedivide/combine flow connector, comprising: a) a flange mounting surfacehaving a width WE, a height HE, and a single port having a nominaldiameter D1 at said first mounting surface; b) a port face mountingsurface having a height HE and two ports having a nominal diameter D1 atsaid port face mounting surface, the center of said ports being spacedapart from one another a widthwise distance dd; c) a fluid-flow channelconnecting said ports, d) a plurality of through bores on said port facemounting surface; e) a plurality of threaded bores on said flangemounting surface, wherein the width dd is less than or equal to 1-⅓times EE specified in SAE standard J518 corresponding to said nominalport diameter D1; and, said connector having a working pressure ratinggreater than or equal to the working pressure rating specified in SAEstandard J518 corresponding to said nominal diameter D1.
 82. Aone-piece, flanged, fluid-flow connector for connecting tube, pipe, hoseor the like to a port face, said connector having an overall length L1,comprising: a) a base having a height H, width W, a generally-flat portface mounting surface on one end, and a connection piece fixed to andextending from the other end of said base; b) a plurality of mountingtabs fixed to and extending outwardly from said base, said tabs having athickness T and an aperture extending therethrough; c) a central,elongate, cylindrical channel extending lengthwise through saidconnector from a port on said mounting surface to a port on saidconnection piece, said port having a nominal diameter D1 at said portface mounting surface, 1said base having a maximum width W which is lessthan the recommended pad width FF specified in SAE standard J518corresponding to said nominal port diaveter D1.